Program Highlights

  • Develop a portfolio of work from different writing genres, including gonzo journalism, poetry, fiction, and scriptwriting
  • Discover inspiration and hone skills through daily writing exercises and mentor texts
  • Become a stronger writer by honing reading skills by diving deep into short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays
  • Engage with professionals in the field of publishing and writing to learn more about academic pathways and career opportunities

Program Highlights

  • Develop a portfolio of work from different writing genres, including gonzo journalism, poetry, fiction, and scriptwriting
  • Discover inspiration and hone skills through daily writing exercises and mentor texts
  • Become a stronger writer by honing reading skills by diving deep into short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays
  • Engage with professionals in the field of publishing and writing to learn more about academic pathways and career opportunities
  • W H E N
    • July 22-Aug 4, 2018

Overview

Words have power. Words shape how people perceive reality. Words can change the world. Join Summer Springboard’s Creative Writing program and become immersed in the study of four different genres using the Writer’s Workshop methodology. Discover what it takes to be a novelist, a poet, a scriptwriter, and a gonzo journalist.

Do you have a favorite novelist you want to know more about? Do you question who writes the episodes of The Arrow on the CW? Do you want to understand why journalists risk their lives to cover category 5 hurricanes? Do you turn your poems into song lyrics? Through a variety of lessons, writing prompts, guest speakers, field trips, and time to put pen to paper, the course will sharpen writing skills and love of the written word.

Hands-On Learning

You will practice the craft of writing daily in a supportive environment, with plenty of time to revise work after input from instructors and peers. While the course will strengthen core writing skills, the focus is on exploring new forms of expression and stretching talent.

Writers must also be readers.The study of writing is further developed through reading established authors and mentor texts. You will read short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays to discuss, write about, and use as inspiration. Mentor texts will also enable you to dig deeper into your genre of choice.

You will engage in poetry through the creation of sonnets, acrostic poems, and other forms. Come prepared to write short scripts for television after in-depth discussions on the importance of dialogue. Bring characters and settings to life before writing short stories, and learn research tools before reporting on timely topics. Ultimately, participants drive the curriculum based on their writing interests.

Real World Insights

Throughout the program, you’ll prepare for publication and submit a finalized piece of writing to an appropriate online or print journal/magazine. You’ll meet a variety of experts in the field of writing and publishing who will provide advice and tips on academic preparation and career pathways to explore. In addition, get a glimpse into the life of Mark Twain, by touring his residence. Finally, attend and be part of an open mic night at a local establishment to better understand how writing is an integral and important part of every community.

College Planning

Through our True You (c) curriculum, students engage in a series of personality assessments, interest inventories, and reflection sessions to learn more about who they are and how that aligns with potential academic and career choices. This helps students make better informed decisions about some of life’s most important choices. We will also discuss the wide variety of professions within the writing and publishing field, such as published author, professor, journalist, and more.

About the Course

Throughout the program, work on refining an original piece of writing. Get feedback and critique from your instructor, as well as your peers. By the end of the program, add your polished piece to your personal portfolio of work.

This course was designed by Dr. Lisa Acerbo, a university professor and published author of five young adult and new adult novels. The academic portion of the program will take place from 9am to 12pm each weekday.

Instructors will vary by session on each of our campuses. In total, there will be 10 days of academic programming per two week session. This course is open to all students; there are no prerequisites.

 

Creative Writing Instructor - Lisa Acerbo

Dr. Lisa Acerbo is an university professor and published author of five young adult and new adult novels. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Acerbo helps judge a local annual literary competition and arts festival. She holds her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and has always loved reading and writing.

Full Program Schedule